China's FM Wang Yi to visit South Korea after five-year gap

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to visit South Korea from August 19 to 20, 2026, marking his first official trip to the country in five years, Seoul's Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday (August 18, 2026).

During the two-day visit, Mr. Wang will meet with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House on Thursday (August 20) to discuss bilateral relations and regional affairs. The presidential office said Mr. Wang will convey his regards to Chinese President Xi Jinping on behalf of President Lee.

Mr. Wang will also hold talks and attend a luncheon with National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac. The two sides are expected to exchange views on South Korea-China relations, developments on the Korean Peninsula, and other regional and international issues, according to the presidential office.

Upon his arrival on Wednesday (August 19, 2026), Mr. Wang is scheduled to hold talks and attend a dinner with Foreign Minister Cho Hyun.

The visit comes ahead of the APEC summit scheduled to be held in Shenzhen, China, in November. South Korea's Foreign Ministry said the visit is expected to help both countries review progress in restoring ties and prepare for the next stage of high-level exchanges.

Observers note that the resumption of high-level visits after a five-year pause signals a willingness on both sides to stabilise relations, which have faced challenges in recent years due to regional tensions and differences over issues such as trade and security. However, the ministry's statement emphasised the routine nature of the diplomatic engagement, framing it as part of ongoing consultations between neighbours.

South Korea and China have maintained diplomatic relations since 1992, and China remains South Korea's largest trading partner. The visit is seen as an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of the bilateral relationship amid a complex regional environment, including the situation on the Korean Peninsula and broader geopolitical shifts.

No official agenda beyond the listed meetings has been disclosed. The presidential office and foreign ministry have not commented on any specific outcomes expected from the discussions.